Jacksonville at Miami Picks and Predictions for Monday, November 3, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 11/02/2025, 10:27 PM ET

The college basketball season begins in Coral Gables as Miami hosts Jacksonville at the Watsco Center. The Hurricanes open a new era under first-year head coach Jai Lucas, while Jordan Mincy’s Dolphins bring back an experienced core with eyes on contending in the ASUN. Miami looks to rebound from a down year, and Jacksonville will measure its progress against an ACC opponent. Throw a full-court pass for the winning basket with college basketball picks.

Game Information for Jacksonville vs Miami

Location: Watsco Center, Coral Gables, FL

Time: 8:00 p.m. ET

Coverage: ACC Extra

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Jacksonville Preview

Jordan Mincy enters his fifth season leading the Dolphins with one of his most balanced rosters yet. Sophomore guard Chris Arias, the reigning ASUN All-Freshman honoree, anchors the backcourt alongside redshirt freshman Anakin Brown. Senior forwards Jason Thirdkill Jr. and Allen Udemadu add rebounding strength and experience, while transfer Jaylen Jordon brings defensive strengths to the roster.

Jacksonville’s schedule is tough to start, opening against Miami before road trips to High Point, Texas A&M, and Florida State. Mincy’s group plays with defensive intensity and will look to push tempo when opportunities arise, but success hinges on its half-court execution against bigger, more-talented teams. Facing a reloaded ACC opponent on the road, the Dolphins will need to stay composed and make perimeter shots to keep the game close.

Miami Preview

The Hurricanes start fresh under Jai Lucas, who inherits a roster rebuilt through the transfer portal. Senior forward Malik Reneau, formerly of Indiana, and center Ernest Udeh from TCU headline the frontcourt, while Tre Donaldson, a transfer from Michigan, adds to the backcourt at guard. Miami’s combination of veterans and newcomers gives the program immediate potential to be a contender in the ACC.

After ranking near the bottom nationally in defense last season, Lucas emphasized rebounding and shot contesting throughout preseason camp. The Hurricanes’ size advantage should create interior mismatches, and the added experience across the roster gives the Canes a solid foundation. Playing at home, Miami is a heavy favorite and well-positioned to open its season with a convincing win if the defense plays as expected.

Jacksonville at Miami Prediction

Miami has the advantage in athleticism, depth, and frontcourt talent. Jacksonville’s energy could keep the first half competitive, but the Hurricanes’ inside presence and bench scoring will dominate after the half. Expect a steady, controlled effort from Miami in Lucas’ debut. Final Score Prediction: Miami Hurricanes win and cover ATS, 85–56.

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